Bears' Marshall rips Sapp over remark

Receiver responds to analyst's criticism with 2 online videos

September 25, 2012|By Jared S. Hopkins, Chicago Tribune reporter

Bears receiver Brandon Marshall, who publicly disclosed he received treatment for a mental illness, posted two videos online Monday in response to NFL Network analyst Warren Sapp calling him a "retard" on a radio program last week.

On the syndicated "The Dan Patrick Show," the former Bucs and Raiders defensive end said, "These kids that play the game today have no relevance for the past, have no conscious of what it is. I mean, Brandon Marshall talking about Shannon Sharpe, who is he to talk? He's the first 100-catch receiver, back-to-back, retard. What you just did in Denver for three years. You don't know this? No, of course he doesn't, because it's not about Brandon Marshall ... it ain't about the past, it's about me. It's about personal success, pay me, and now I'll think about being a team guy."

Marshall, appearing to be driving a car in his first video, blasted the former All-Pro.

"He called me 'retarded.' That's really disappointing to hear that from an NFL legend, but I'm going to take this as a lesson," he said. "When I look at Warren Sapp, I can't go to him and talk about finances because he filed for bankruptcy. I can't go to him and talk about my marriage because he filed for divorce. I can't go to him and talk about being a great father — because one day I'm going to have children — because he's not active in his children's life. The lesson that we all should learn here is surround yourself with good people and be careful who you take counsel from. I'm not saying he's been there on my side giving me counsel. But that's not a guy that I can go to."

Sapp, who filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy earlier this year, long has been a lightning rod for controversy, in part because of his blunt commentary. On Monday, he issued a statement to the Tribune: "I want to apologize to all those who I offended with my poor choice of words. I certainly meant no disrespect to those who have some type of disability or special needs."

Marshall, who arrived in Chicago via a trade with the Dolphins in March after six successful yet stormy seasons in Denver and Miami, has said he has received treatment for borderline personality disorder, an illness characterized by impulsive behavior and uncontrolled emotions. In an email, Marshall declined further comment.

Shortly after posting the first video, Marshall posted another, explaining why he responded.

"It's one thing to give constructive criticism, but when you talk down to someone, you're rude to someone, you think you're better than someone, that says a lot about who you are — not as far as outwardly, but deep in your soul. So it seems like it's a bigger issue, and all we can do is try to encourage him to be better."

Sapp has been critical of Marshall before. Before the season, he said Marshall has "physical tools" but was not an "elite" receiver in the league.